Teller County Commissioner Dan Williams says a U.S. Forest Service employee revealed that Colorado could face a 40% reduction in firefighting capability this season due to federal funding cuts.
Williams, who also serves on the Teller County Wildland Fire Council, is urging Governor Jared Polis and state agencies to retain firefighting resources within the state to prepare for potential wildfires.
Governor Polis’ office responded, stating, “It is the Colorado way to lend a hand to other states when they are in need, so long as we don’t need the aircraft.” The governor plans to continue mutual aid when possible, with the expectation that support would be reciprocated.
